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What is a transtracheal catheter?

The transtracheal catheter is the flexible little tube that passes from the lower neck into the trachea (or windpipe) and delivers oxygen directly to your lungs. The tube is kept in place by a safety flange and a bead chain necklace. Catheters are made of a flexible plastic, and should be replaced every 90 days (3 months) or if they start to become brittle, yellowed, or kinked. The hoses that connect the catheter to the oxygen source come in many different sizes, to accommodate the many different sizes of patients that use transtracheal oxygen therapy and feature a safety clip. This safety clip attaches to the pants, skirt, shorts or dress waistband and helps to absorb any accidental pulls on the hose. Your TTO hose is designed to be worn on the right hip.